In years past, artist Peter Max has celebrated the July 4 holiday with United States Presidents, sailing around the State of Liberty, and painting patriotic symbols of the country.

This Fourth of July, Max will be at Ocean Galleries in Stone Harbor for the opening of his exhibition, "Peter Max: A Tribute to America."

"It's a nice day for the whole country," Max said of July 4.

This never-before-seen collection will feature Max's extensive collection of patriotic artwork in addition to an assortment of beach-themed paintings inspired by his many visits to the Jersey Shore.

Max said each of his pieces comes from a different inspiration.

"I get inspired as I'm doing it," he said of his paintings. "Just like I do on a daily basis with everything in life."

The collections will include some of his most iconic pieces such as paintings from Woodstock to the Marilyn Monroe series, to one of his latest collections in honor of the Frank Sinatra Centennial Celebration.

With countless paintings on display in galleries all over the world, Max said it's still surprising to see so many of his works at one time.

"Normally, I paint one at a time," he said. "Then I got to the gallery and they are all over the walls. It's beautiful."

Ocean Galleries owner Josh Miller said having Max visit during the July 4th holiday has become a tradition.

"People look forward to seeing Peter, and Peter loves the Stone Harbor area," Miller said. "He's been coming during the Fourth of July for so many years, it's become a local tradition."

Miller said Max has a following of people who visit him each time he comes to the gallery.

"He has a whole following of our clientele," he said. "There will be people lined up at 6:15 (p.m.) just milling around outside, hoping to see him arrive at the gallery. It's a big tadoo."

"Peter Max: A Tribute to America" will be on display from July 3 to July 5 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Max will be on hand from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

The exhibition and receptions are free and open to the public, and all artwork is available for purchase.

Ocean Galleries is located at 9618 Third Avenue in Stone Harbor. For more information, visit www.oceangalleries.com or call 609-368-7777.